East Grand Rapids — East Grand Rapids Public Schools has a new director of teaching and learning in Jason Hoogenstyn, who joined the district during the summer.
Hoogenstyn said he’s thrilled about the position, and that his first few months on the job have been a “very positive and rewarding experience.”
“Every day, I have the privilege of collaborating with teachers, leaders and professionals in the field of education,” he said. “The daily opportunities to collaborate with others allows me to make the best, most informed decisions, which have a direct and meaningful impact on students and teachers.”
Hoogenstyn said he’s excited to work for a district so “rich with history and traditions of instructional excellence,” and he aims to learn as much as he can about the EGRPS community as his first year progresses.
Hoogenstyn’s career in education began in 2004, when he started teaching students with special needs at Grand Rapids Public Schools. He spent 10 years teaching students with emotional impairments at Northview Public Schools.
He transitioned from teaching to administration as principal of North Oakview Elementary School. He also served as an adjunct professor for Grand Valley State University’s College of Education from 2011 to 2018.
In addition to holding a master’s degree in education from Cornerstone University, Hoogenstyn is a certified elementary administrator and has a special education administration degree.
Given his background, Hoogenstyn said his new position feels like a natural progression, and a great fit.
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